The Government of Assam has officially brought into force the Assam Shops and Establishments Act, 2022, which received Presidential assent on March 13, 2025. This landmark legislation replaces the earlier 1971 Act and aims to modernize and regulate employment conditions in shops, commercial establishments, and entertainment venues across the state.
What the New Act Covers
The Act has been introduced to ensure fair and regulated conditions of service for workers and employees across various types of establishments. It applies statewide, and came into immediate effect after notification.
Key Features of the Assam Shops and Establishments Act, 2022
✅ Applicability:
- Covers all shops, commercial establishments, and public amusement or entertainment venues.
- Excludes Central/State government offices, local authorities, RBI offices, and establishments for care of the infirm, among others.
✅ Registration Mandate:
- Shops/establishments employing 5 or more workers must register online within 60 days of opening.
- A Labour Identification Number (LIN) will be issued upon registration.
- Valid registrations under the 1971 Act remain valid until expiry or renewal.
✅ Workers’ Rights Protected:
- The Act does not override existing benefits under other laws, contracts, or settlements that are more favorable to the worker.
✅ Penalties for Violations:
- General violations: Fine up to ₹50,000, with ₹2,000/day for continuing offences (max ₹2,000 per worker).
- Accidents due to violation: Up to 6 months’ imprisonment or a fine between ₹1 lakh to ₹2 lakhs, or both.
- Obstructing inspectors: Fines up to ₹2 lakhs.
- Companies can also be held liable for offences committed under the Act.
Government Discretion
- The state may extend or exclude the applicability of the Act or its provisions to specific classes of establishments or workers via notification in the Official Gazette.
Repeal of 1971 Act
With the enforcement of the 2022 Act, the Assam Shops and Establishments Act, 1971 (Assam Act No. XXI of 1974) stands officially repealed.
This move is seen as a step forward in improving labour governance in Assam, ensuring that working conditions in both traditional and modern business environments are in line with contemporary standards and labour welfare expectations